Helldivers 2 has proven to be a massive success for Sony Interactive Entertainment and their PS5 console. Released in 2024, the title is a cooperative third-person shooter developed by Arrowhead Games and published by Sony. It’s the direct sequel to Helldivers, a 2015 top-down shooter.
The game received tons of positive reviews from critics, praising its cooperative gameplay and sense of humor. The game also offers a variety of weapons and vehicles and builds several improvements on its predecessor.
Of course, it is not just a massive hit but a fun game to boot. The question inevitably emerged: “Will it come to Xbox?”. Such a question is still not within the realm of prediction, but recent rumors suggest the possibility may be on the horizon.
Helldivers 2 on Xbox Rumor Surfaces Yet Again
Shpeshal Nick, host of the XboxEra podcast, recently revealed that there are indeed rumors that the game could be heading to the Xbox soon. Although these are only rumors Shpeshal Nick does have a reputation for breaking insider gaming news. Shpeshal Nick claims there have been preliminary talks between Sony and Xbox to bring the game to Series X/S.
Though these are only rumors, there are positive reasons for believing the game could make the jump. There aren’t many publicly available resources to track the PS5 player count, but the Steam launch saw a massive peak of around 458,000 players according to Steam Charts. However, that player base has dropped down to 158,000. Being a massive hit already, the game becoming a multiplatform game would only increase its player base further.
Sony has a long history of keeping their games exclusive. Popular titles like God of War, Horizon Zero Dawn, and the recent Marvel’s Spider-Man series from Insomniac have remained solid titles regardless of the clamoring of Xbox fans. However, a strategy of maintaining exclusives is a good business approach. It allows Sony to leverage the popularity of their most well-known characters and games to boost their sales and player base.
Shifting Landscapes in Multiplatform Titles
Though a few Sony titles like Horizon Zero Dawn and God of War have seen releases on PC, the company remains reluctant to release titles to their former foe in the begrudging console wars. But recent news regarding the shifting landscapes at both Sony and Microsoft could mean change is just around the bin.
In the past, Sony aimed to primarily promote their console. However, if a console maker has strong “first-party content”, not only on its console but others as well, it can lead to growth and ultimately improve the company’s profit.
Phil Spencer has also expressed a willingness to bring Microsoft-owned games to other platforms. Microsoft’s acquisition of Bethesda has already led to some exclusives migrating to Sony’s platform.
And as Shpeshal Nick describes the game feels like it should be an Xbox game. With its sci-fi military setting and cooperative shooter landscape, the title fits nicely alongside Xbox mainstays like Gears of War and Halo.
Though Xbox gamers are likely chomping at the bit, it’s best to keep expectations in check for now since Sony has a history of keeping their exclusives on their platforms.
What do you think about this situation? Let us know in the comments!
